PADDLE power saw Lieutenant Emma Swinburne from Grange-over-Sands win her stripes at the Interservice Canoe Championships at the National Watersports Centre, Nottingham.

Emma, 26, who is serving with the Royal Logistic Crops, was taking part in sprint and marathon competitions against more than 50 top canoeists from the Amery, Navy and Royal Air Force.

She won gold in the women's K2 200 metre sprint and K4 1000 metre race.

The events took place on the regatta course and River Trent.

Talking about her paddling, Emma said:"I have been canoeing for the past four years and have competed in two Interservice and two Army Championships.

"Competitive canoering is something I did at Sandhurst during my officer training Iand I found I really enjoyed it.

"Unlike many other sports it is equal for men and women."

Emma attended Ulverston Victoria High School before joining the Army in 1998.

Her parents Peter and Jane live in the area.